Tito Rodriguez

Multi-instrumentalist Tito Rodriguez played an important role in New York's thriving Latin dance scene of the 1950s and '60s. His expressive playing was an important factor in the success of his brother Johnny Rodriguez's band. A native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Rodriguez displayed his talents at a very young age. Accomplished on a variety of instruments, he could interpret popular tunes while still in his childhood. He secured his first contract as a musician at the age of 13. Although he made his first trip to the United States as a member of Cuarteto Caney, his tenure with the band was short-lived. After coming late to an important gig, he was fired by bandleader Noro Morales. He quickly found employment with the band led by Enrique Madriguera. Following his brother to New York in 1939, Rodriguez accepted a position with the Johnny Rodriguez Orchestra. Although he was tempted by offers to join Xavier Cugart's group, he remained faithful to his brother's group. While in New York, he sharpened his skills as a student of Professor Moe Goldenberg. In 1952, he received a mention of honor award from the Century Conservatory of Music of New York. During the early rock era, Rodriguez played for a while with Leroy Holmes' orchestra and produced albums by El Cuarteto Los Hispanos, Los Montemar, and Teddy Trinidad. In the mid-'60s, Rodriguez returned to Puerto Rico. In addition to performing frequently in San Juan hotels, he hosted popular television show El Show de Tito Rodriguez. Rodriguez died from leukemia on February 28, 1972. ~ Craig Harris

I was born in New York , now reside in Calif. As a child l grew up with the music we all love and Tito R. Was by far instrumental in my life the interest he put in my life still remains as such l took up percussion and with his sounds l still enjoy playing along with his outstanding music. Thank you Tito Rodriguez

Wow! back in the day. I just turned seven Oh! In my mind I'm still as young as I was back then and Ican still cut a step. Anybody remember the Palladium, the Cheetah, El Hippo Campo, the Tritons, theManhattan Center, the Hunts Point Palace, and a whole bunch of other places. I remember TP and Eddieat a lot of those places, and also Charlie P, La Voz, Willie Bobo and Mongo playing at La Caravana andso many other places. Kudos! Thanks for the memories. ralph rivera/smokersodysseycom

When I was a student at Lincoln elementary he lived in a house in front and used to practice all day in the balcony, just with a guitar. Saw him in NYC, and San Juan, danced to his music, Also, playing golf with Sammy Davis. He had it all, talent, looks, charm. His sister Pura was my school mate and Johnny talked to me about his music and act many times. RIP.

Tito, I will always love you and your beautiful music. I truly miss you, but your music will live in my heart. You was so talented and you never got the credit that you should of gotten. You will be the Master of love songs.Thank you for all those beautiful music and your voice that is timeless. Le' Che'vere